The right ESL pre-k teaching tools can make learning easier and more fun. Take, for example, the research work of Dr. Howard Gardner who came up with the theory of multiple intelligences. This essentially rules out the idea that the best way for children to learn is by sitting at a table doing "desk work". Instead, Gardner pinpoints different "intelligences" which are essentially learning styles. Everyone has a specific intelligence (or a few specific intelligences) that defines how he or she learns best. This means that in order to reach all the children in a classroom, different learning methods must be made available to them. The multiple intelligences are :
Linguistic intelligence: Learning and using spoken and written language
Logical-mathematical intelligence: Logically analysing problems, detecting patterns, reasoning.
Musical intelligence: Performing, composing, and appreciating musical patterns.
Bodily-kinaesthetic intelligence: Using the whole body or parts of the body to solve problems.
Spatial intelligence: Recognizing patterns of wide space and confined areas.
Interpersonal intelligence: Effectively working with others.
Intrapersonal intelligence: Understanding self and feelings.
By using games and other activities in your classroom, you'll be able to create a class period that explores various intelligences and reaches a variety of children instead of just the linguistic learners.
Additionally, it's important to remember that preschoolers simply learn best through play. Just think about how preschoolers learn to count. They may count how many cars they have lined up or how many blocks they've stacked.
After years of expression mainly in pre-schools, Montessori philosophy is finally being used as originally intended, as a method of seeing children as they really are and of creating environments which foster the fulfillment of their highest potential - spiritual, emotional, physical, and intellectual - as members of a family, the world community and the Cosmos.
Dr. Montessori gave the world a scientific method, practical and tested, for bringing forth the very best in young human beings. She taught adults how to respect individual differences, and to emphasize social interaction and the education of the whole personality rather than the teaching of a specific body of knowledge.
Montessori practice is always up-to-date and dynamic because observation and the meeting of needs is continual and specific for each child. When physical, mental, spiritual, and emotional needs are met children glow with excitement and a drive to play and work with enthusiasm, to learn, and to create. They exhibit a desire to teach, help, and care for others and for their environment.
The high level of academic achievement so common in Montessori schools is a natural outcome of experience in such a supportive environment. The Montessori method of education is a model which serves the needs of children of all levels of mental and physical ability as they live and learn in a natural, mixed-age group which is very much like the society they will live in as adults.
Today Montessori teacher training centers and schools exist on all continents. There are Montessori parenting classes, "Nidos" ("nests" for infants), infant communities, "children's houses" (for age 3-6), and classes for children up to age eighteen in public and private schools. Montessori works in gifted and talented programs, and for children with developmental disabilities of all kinds. Many parents are using Dr. Montessori's discoveries to raise/educate their children at home.
The discoveries of Maria Montessori are valuable for anyone living and working with children in any situation
Dr. Montessori, in her initial work in 1907 in San Lorenzo, observed that the younger children were intensely attracted to sensory development apparatus. The children used these materials spontaneously, independently, repeatedly and with deep concentration. They emerged from this spontaneous activity renewed and with a profound sense of inner satisfaction.
"Montessori method is based on the spontaneous activity of the child which is aroused precisely by the interest the child takes in the material."
From this initial discovery, over many years of observation and trial and error, Dr. Montessori and her son Mario, went on to design an entire range of Montessori materials.
In order for the materials to be of optimum benefit they must be presented to the child at the appropriate stage in his or her development by a trained Montessori teacher. The materials then allow the child to engage in self-directed, purposeful activity. The materials are beautiful and enticing and are displayed in an orderly and accessible way.
"All the apparatus must be meticulously in order, beautiful and shiny, in perfect condition. Nothing must be missing, so that to the child it always seems new, complete and ready for use."
Today, the Association Montessori Internationale Pedagogical Committee continues to oversee the development and manufacture of the Montessori materials.
"Times have changed, and science has made great progress, and so has our work; but our principles have only been confirmed, and along with them our conviction that mankind can hope for a solution to its problems, among which the most urgent are those of peace and unity, only by turning its attention and energies to the discovery of the child and to the development of the great potentialities of the human personality in the course of its formation."
(From the foreword to "The Discovery of the Child", Poona 1948)
Helen Doron Early English for children aged 3 months - 14 years
This internationally acclaimed English learning system stimulates a child's natural ability to learn through repeated hearing at home, and play activities in the class - creating a positive, fun-filled environment that gives children the ability to learn English as if it was their native tongue.
Proven method: Helen Doron Early English has benefited nearly half a million babies, toddlers and children worldwide, for over 20 years.
Learning through fun: Exclusive learning sets developed by experts inspire through song, music, movement, games, special activities and more!
Natural learning: Promotes pleasure in acquiring new skills, by enhancing participation and motivation in all age ranges.
Every child a winner: Nurturing a child's natural disposition to learn through positive reinforcement and support builds self esteem and enhances confidence.
10 English courses: 7 years of spoken English for children, toddlers and infants (optional reading and writing) plus 3 years of spoken English plus reading and writing for older children.
Attention to details: Children learn to cultivate the proper pronunciation, accent, grammar and vocabulary of native English speakers.
Needs of older children: Lessons include special preparation for passing international language examinations.
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